Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1786

Death

:

1849

Period

:

Romantic

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Charles Edward Horn was a British composer, singer, and pianist who lived from 1786 to 1849. He was born in London to a family of musicians, and his father, Charles Frederick Horn, was a well-known composer and singer. Charles Edward Horn showed an early talent for music and began performing in public at the age of six. Horn received his musical education from his father and from other prominent musicians of the time, including Johann Nepomuk Hummel and Ignaz Moscheles. He made his debut as a composer at the age of 14 with a set of songs, and his first opera, The King of the Peacocks, was produced when he was just 17. Horn's early works were influenced by the Italian opera style, which was popular in England at the time. He wrote a number of operas, including The Fairies' Revels, The Exile, and The Chough and the Crow, which were well-received by audiences. However, his most famous work is the song "Cherry Ripe," which he composed in 1826. The song became a popular hit and has remained a favorite of audiences ever since. In addition to his work as a composer, Horn was also a talented singer and pianist. He performed in concerts throughout England and Europe, and was known for his beautiful tenor voice. He also taught music, and his pupils included the composer and pianist William Sterndale Bennett. Horn's music was characterized by its lyricism and melodic beauty. He was a master of the art song, and his works in this genre are still performed today. His music was also notable for its use of folk melodies and themes, which he incorporated into his compositions in a way that was both original and accessible. Despite his success as a composer and performer, Horn struggled with financial difficulties throughout his life. He was forced to sell the rights to "Cherry Ripe" for a small sum of money, and he often had to rely on the support of friends and patrons to make ends meet. Nevertheless, he continued to compose and perform until his death in 1849. Today, Charles Edward Horn is remembered as one of the most important composers of his time. His music has been performed and recorded by countless artists, and his influence can be heard in the works of many later composers. His legacy is a testament to the enduring power of beautiful music, and to the talent and dedication of one of England's most beloved musicians.

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